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fall non-wreath door decoration

Fall Door Decorations That Aren’t Wreaths

Break the “wreath mold” this season with creative door decor ideas that are sure to stun.

I really do love a gorgeous fall wreath. But sometimes it’s nice to try something new. So this year maybe think about swapping out your usual grapevine wreath for a front door decoration that’s equally as beautiful but totally unexpected. 

Who knew there were so many gorgeous non-wreath options out there? Here are some really cool approaches to wreath alternatives.

Pumpkin Parade

Fall foliage flows around white pumpkins.

Invoke the warm and fuzzy feelings of fall with this stylish front door design. Cover your door in brown craft paper, then cut store-bought white pumpkins in half. Attach the pumpkins with removable picture hanging hooks and accent with a waterfall of faux fall foliage and plaid ribbon.

DIY Door Tags

DIY hanging tags are a perfect alternative to a fall wreath for your door.

Simple and chic, these fall-themed door tags from DIY blogger Jaime Costiglio are a fun, elegant way to add a touch of seasonality to your outdoor decor. Head over to her blog to get the step-by-step instructions.

Basket of Blooms

fall non-wreath door decoration

Fill a single straw tote or basket with a mix of silk sunflowers, faux fall leaves, dried grasses, and seed pods for a rustic look that pulls in all the seasonal shades of fall. Bonus: Add vinyl house numbers for a custom touch.

Wow With Wheat

A gathering of ribbon-tied wheat will wow your door for fall.

This quintessential fall door decoration is as pretty to look at as it is easy to make. All you need is a handful of wheat, a rubberband, and some ribbon.

Garden Rake Welcome

Autumn garden rake decoration for your door.

Is last year’s rake looking a little worse for the wear? Instead of tossing it, give it new life as a cheery fall welcome arrangement.

Candy Corn Cutie

Deck your door for fall with pennants of hand-crafted candy corn.

Some people love it, some hate it, but everyone agrees that candy corn is a seasonal staple. Put your love of this polarizing candy on display by decking your door in a banner of handcrafted candy corn pennants. All you need is a store-bought cardboard pennant banner, some craft paint, and wood beads to pull off this yellow, orange, and white display.

Decorative Corn

Dried corn bundled definitely says "fall".

Nothing says “fall” quite like a bundle of dried flint corn. For an elegant presentation, choose three large ears, spray paint in varying metallic colors, and braid them together before hanging.

Pretty Paper Dahlias

Pretty paper dahlias for your door.

If you’re feeling particularly crafty, throw together a few of these large DIY paper dahlias for a fun, youthful fall look.

It’s Fall, Y’all

Create a backdrop to add some fall words of welcome to your door.

Add some harvest hospitality to your entry by covering the front door in rustic, brown craft paper, faux fall leaves, and hand-lettered words of welcome.

Dried Florals

Hang a basket of dried florals instead of a wreath for fall.

Get a long-lasting fresh flower look by filling a vintage hanging container with dried hydrangea, cotton stems, and curly willow branches. When it’s time to switch out your fall door decor, simply rearrange all materials in a vase to be enjoyed indoors.

Pumpkins Aren’t Just for Carving

Lightweight faux pumpkins can decorate your door and your entry way.

A rustic metal basket lined with wheat straw creates the perfect base for displaying pumpkins, apples or other decorative seasonal produce. Opt for high-quality faux varieties instead of the real thing to keep the basket from getting too heavy and to ensure your decor will last throughout the season.

I hope these fall door styling ideas have inspired you! If you’d like to talk about other ways to inject some fall styling into your home or office decor, you can choose a contact method right below this blog post. And feel free to give me a call anytime at (407) 743-2399, and we can explore some delightful options together. You can also email me at: carmen@sohointeriordesign.com and you can also click this link to message me via my website.

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Vining Ivy, 2023 color of the year.

The 2023 Color of the Year from PPG and Glidden

Both the Glidden and PPG paint brands chose the on-trend teal for their joint 2023 color of the year selection.

Vining Ivy is the 2023 color of the year

PPG announced its 2023 Color of the Year, Vining Ivy. Color experts at the company say the “bluish-greenish-something-in-betweenish” hue is as adaptable as its botanical namesake and intertwines bold blue and refined green to create a captivating color symbolic of deep water.

Vining Ivy is moody for 2023.

“Consumers are seeking to simplify in this post-COVID era, as the past two years have shed a new light on the importance of serenity and little moments,” says Ashley McCollum, Glidden color expert. “Vining Ivy embodies this vibe perfectly. It is energizing yet grounding, and it works in literally any space.”

Vining Ivy is a very calming color

The new teal tone can be used to set a calming mood in spaces, as its blue communicates feelings of tranquility while the emerald evokes feelings of balance. When paired together, these two undertones create an ultra-rich color that has us “in our feels” as we cautiously emerge from the pandemic.

Vining Ivy adds depth to an accent wall.

In a residential setting, the color can be used for an interior or an exterior. For an interior, the experts see it used on full wall settings for a dramatic yet calming space, or as an accent wall to add personality. It can be dressed up with gold accents and white trim for a more glamorous look.

As an exterior, it adds plenty of curb appeal and personality to the body of a home, or as a front door color to compliment colorful landscaping.

The 2023 color of the year is moody and elegant

Vining Ivy for the kitchen.

“Those who love this moody hue but are still feeling in-betweenish on how to bring it into their space can treat themselves to the understated elegance of a teal accent wall or serve up a statement by featuring Vining Ivy on their kitchen cabinetry,” adds McCollum. “Even the most modest spaces can benefit from the teal treatment. For those short on square footage but big on style, we recommend using this rich hue as bold contrast to a neutral palette, making a petite room feel plush.”

Vining Ivy adds elegance to a bathroom.

If this new color for 2023 has inspired you, and you’d like to see how to incorporate it into your spaces, I’m always available for consultations If this sounds appealing, and we can talk more about how Vining Ivy can enhance your interiors. Choose a contact method right below this blog post, or click this “contact” link. You can also email me at: carmen@sohointeriordesign.com And you can always call me anytime at (407) 743-2399.

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Tropical style in the living room.

Adding a Tropical Vibe to Your Home

Looking to add a touch of the tropics to your home decor? Island living is something that many of us aspire to. Regardless of where you live, there are many ways in which you can create an inspiring tropical style for your spaces.

Tropical style is all about paradise and island life, and it can be achieved with the right furniture, colors, and accessories. It’s all about providing a sense of escape and relaxation. And it’s the perfect way to bring the outdoors into your home.

When decorating with a tropical theme, it’s easy to go over the top. My suggestion is to start small and add one or two tropical accessories, take it slow, and see what you might enjoy living with. You’ll gradually find your perfect balance. Here are a few easy tips to help you get started:

Simple tips on how to create a tropical home decor theme

Start with a neutral base

A neutral base lets you introduce tropical decor gently into your space.

This gives you a blank canvas to work with. Light-colored walls and floors will help to brighten up your space and make it feel more open and airy – perfect for those hot summer days.

Decorating with plants is an easy way to create tropical style for your spaces

Tropical plants are a great way to create a tropical vibe in a space.

Nothing spells tropical style more than leafy green plants. From the structural shapes of monastera and rubber tree plants to softer ferns, there’s something for everyone. Palms and bird of paradise are two other excellent choices. Try mixing different styles of tropical plants together for a lush jungle ambiance. Remember to spray your plants regularly with a water bottle to increase humidity and your tropical house plants will thrive.

Bring in natural elements

Use natural elements for tropical style.

Tropical style should evoke a sense of relaxation and escape, so bring in natural elements like wicker, rattan, and bamboo to help create that feeling. Find furniture and accents made from these materials, or add them in through textiles and wall coverings.

Hotel decor is a great inspiration for tropical style

Treehouse hotel in Jamaica is a great source of tropical inspiration.

Take inspiration from tropical homes or hotels, and consider investing in a day bed – perfect for lounging around. You can enhance that island vibe with fabrics utilizing tropical themes such as seashells or tropical leaves. These can range from very subtle to bright and bold.

Bring the outdoors in

Rain shower bathroom, bringing the outdoors inside.

One example is, if you’ve ever experienced a luxurious outdoor shower, you know how exotic that can be. But since most of us aren’t situated where we can install an outdoor shower, how about installing a high-tech rain shower inside your home instead? If you accessorize with stone or wooden furniture then you could almost believe you were outdoors.

Add some bright colors to create tropical style

Bright colors create a tropical vibe.

Tropical style can easily be created using the right bright colors.

Tropical style is known for its bold, bright colors. Think fiery reds, vibrant oranges, and sunny yellows. Incorporate this color palette into your space through fabrics, artwork, and accessories. One of the best tropical shades is coral, a vibrant color that will breathe life into any decor. This color works particularly well for pillows, rugs and paired with gold accents. While green is a key element in any tropical look, don’t forget to throw a few contrasting colors into the mix. One example would be to team hot pink with turquoise for a vibrant look.

Keep it cool

Ceiling fan keeps your tropical paradise cool.

If you live in a hot climate like Florida where I am, or if you just want to emulate tropical home decor, then a ceiling fan might be a great investment. There’s something so relaxing about watching the blades whir away. Tropical furniture made from rattan, wicker, and bamboo looks good in most homes, being lightweight and sturdy.

Create a romantic atmosphere

Canopy bed adds great sense of tropical style to a bedroom.

Bedrooms lend themselves nicely to tropical home decor. For an elegant island vibe, add billowing muslin curtains to your bed. You can install a four-poster bed frame or simply opt for a muslin bed canopy. It’s also a lovely look for a children’s bedroom!

Here are some more photos of lovely tropical style spaces and accessories to jumpstart your creative thinking…

Tropical style wallpaper adds that island vibe.

Tropical style furnishings and accessories.

Sophisticated tropical style.

Natural materials help create a tropical vibe.

If you’re now itching for a cool tropical vibe for your home spaces, let’s talk more about how to move things in that direction – I’m always here to help. Choose a contact method right below this blog post, or click this “contact” link. You can also email me at: carmen@sohointeriordesign.com And you can always call me anytime at (407) 743-2399.

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Green home decor

Bringing the Color Green into Your Home Decor

Plants are a given. Adding nature, especially in the form of greenery, into your home interiors is a win-win! It looks beautiful, it adds a pop of natural color, and it helps clean the air. Sure they require a little care, but the rewards are great.

Adding plants into your home decor.

I’m thinking beyond plants. With the resurgence of “getting back to nature”, there’s been a recent trend to bring a variety of green colors into our spaces. Whether through the easiest route, an application of paint, or by introducing lovely accents, fabrics, artwork, or wall and window coverings, the opportunities are endless. Just don’t pile everything into one room! There are so many lovely green tones that can meander in subtle ways throughout your home, linking together in a harmonious flow. Unless green is hands-down your favorite color, there’s no reason to overdo it.

Green doesn't have to be a prominent color to pull other colors together in harmony.

Repeat the color in your decor

If you do happen to decide to paint your walls a new (green) color, once you do it, don’t panic if it doesn’t feel right. Take a breath, and then another, and remember: don’t judge a new paint color until you’ve pulled the room back together. The key is to repeat the color at least twice in the rest of that room or space. And it doesn’t have to be the same shade. It’s a lot more interesting if you add varying shades of the hue. And don’t overdo it. Consider repeating the color green in a pattern on throw pillows, or a rug, on lamps or lampshades, in artwork, etc. Subtle things can tie it all together beautifully.

Green accents throughout your spaces can work wonders linking other colors together.

So many shades of green paint to add life to your spaces.

A green piece of furniture can be an eye-catcher!

A subtle green wall paint can add a comforting mood to a room.

There are so many ways of accenting your spaces with the color green. I’d love to show you a variety of options that would work best for your space, so if what you’ve seen here has inspired you, definitely let me know. I’m easy to reach – you can choose a contact method right below this blog post, or click this “contact” link. You can also email me at: carmen@sohointeriordesign.com, and you can always call me anytime at (407) 743-2399.

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Trend #3: the tropics.

Top Decor Trends for Summer

(Hint: Bring the Tropics Home – That’s a Big One)

As the air has become hotter and the days longer, I love cooler breezier interiors. Linen sheets, vibrant colors, beachy accessories. Let’s look at some of the top summer decor trends of 2022.

These looks are stunning. But like summer, there’s an ease to each one. This season is about fluidity, and it’s time for a bit of a reprieve. (we’ve surely earned it.) So read on for the 2022 summer decor trends that double as a dose of positivity and wellness for a bright, sparkling season.

 

Top decor trends: unexpected color & details.

Trend #1: Fresh and Unexpected Paint Details

Fresh color will always be in vogue. But it’s how you use it that will win the summer decor trends of 2022. This summer incorporates fresh, vibrant paint in unexpected forms such as on trim and cabinetry. Color can be used in a myriad of ways, of course, and I think summer is shaping up to be huge for injecting it in new ways.

Trend #1: fresh and unexpected paint details.

Why You’ll Love It: Just a reminder that fresh paint doesn’t have to be washed over every wall to make an impact. Use color for concentrated areas to pack a punch. Paint can be intimidating, but using highly curated paint palette decks like Farrow and Ball, can help expedite your color selection process.

 

Trend #2: lots of nature.

Trend #2: Lots of Nature

Verdant leaves rule in 2022 – and they’ll continue to, well into the second half of the year. The trend of incorporating an abundance of nature into your home is a growing trend among designers, myself included. The look can be incorporated in two ways: including plants throughout a room or by capitalizing on views of outdoor greenery with open windows and sheer curtains. Both are easy and accessible.

Why You’ll Love It: Plants always lend an uplifting feel to any room. Truly, any room, including the kitchen, bath, or even an entryway. Just be sure to know your plants’ needs as the summer heat may require additional care.

 

Trend #3: introduce the tropics to your interiors.

Trend #3: The Tropics

For summer 2022, bring your favorite island to your home. Tropical decor packs an instant vacation-vibes punch to a room. This look is simple to obtain. You can start with incorporating bright “happy” colors, from sunny yellows to emerald greens, with throw pillows, vases, and rugs. But the bolder approach is to incorporate island greenery and motifs via wallpaper and prints. Think of tropical trees, pineapple motifs, and leaves of all kinds.

More of trend #3: tropical prints.

Trend #3: tropical motifs.

Why You’ll Love It: This trend is fun and refreshing, and is a great treatment for an accent wall, main bathroom, or powder room. It brings some happiness home.

 

Trend #4:blurring the line between outdoors and indoors.

Trend #4: Blurring the Line Between Outdoors and In

With Florida temperatures warming up, there’s a lot more dining al fresco and spending more time outdoors. People are weaving in ample opportunities to embrace both the outdoors and the look of the outdoors throughout their homes this year. Materials like jute for rugs, chunky cozy furniture with carved details, and more refined designs for outdoor furniture are trending now.

Why You’ll Love It: Even if you don’t have an outdoor living space, you can bring in the same outdoor vibe seamlessly into your home. A jute rug (a focal piece that complements many aesthetics) is ideal, but so are jute accessories and decor items that speak to patio spaces.

 

Trend #5: fresh greens (the color)

Trend #5: Fresh Greens

One of the biggest color trends of this year continues to pull from the outdoors. Green, particularly earthy and muted greens, are a huge inspiration for designers – and clients – in 2022. Green brings out that sense of being refreshed and being natural and colorful – so it hits all the right buttons. This sense of refreshment and reprieve is ideal for the summer months since this is the time to kick back and sink into the warmth, and hopefully, you can do just that.

More of trend #5: fresh greens.

Why You’ll Love It: Earthy green is decidedly neutral and can be used with almost every color on the palette. In this light, lean toward paints and decor accessories that are mossy, grassy, or olive green. There are some really incredible pale greens as well, that are taking people’s breath away, especially in kitchens.

If you would like to introduce any of these summer decor trends into your spaces, I’m always here to help you with that. Just choose a contact method right below this blog post, or click this “contact” link. You can also email me directly at: carmen@sohointeriordesign.com, and you can always call me at (407) 743-2399.

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Outdoor furniture trends 2022

Exciting Outdoor Furniture Trends This Summer

Curves, texture, and other interior trends found their way to the great outdoors in new products at the recent High Point Market trade show. Exciting outdoor furniture trends were definitely on-target as summer heats up

Summer’s here, and the hottest looks for your living room – including rounded silhouettes, natural touches, and mixed materials – are also headed outdoors. That was one of the big stories at the spring 2022 High Point Market in North Carolina, where furniture companies recently showcased their latest collections for thousands of buyers and designers. Here’s a look at the top outdoor furniture trends that are making their way from the design market to a patio or deck near you… maybe yours…

Outdoor furniture trends: rounded corners.

1. Rounded Corners

This season, outdoor furniture pieces had curves in all the right places, just like their indoor counterparts. Some had gently rounded corners; others took exaggerated, sculptural forms.

The new Sense outdoor sofa from Cane-line – paired here with other pieces from the Danish company – is a beautiful and relatively restrained example of the trend. It features retro Scandinavian lines, a weather-resistant weave, and quick-dry cushions. (An indoor version is available in natural rattan – and that’s another trend, bringing the outside in, and vice-versa)

Outdoor furniture trends: natural and organic looks and styling.

2. Natural Nods in Outdoor Furniture Trends

Whether woven, wrapped, or strung, natural fibers go hand in hand with these rounded designs thanks to their flexibility and their organic look and feel. Rattan, wicker, cotton, jute, and their kin have been all over furniture and decor in recent seasons, both indoors and out, though manufacturers of outdoor furniture often use synthetic materials to get the same look with more durability.

For summer, many manufacturers showed fresh iterations on the natural-texture trend by playing with fiber size, color, and silhouette. Pictured here, the delicate-looking strings on Kenneth Cobonpue’s Papillon easy armchair, which are made of handwoven polyethylene, stretch on a frame that resembles fluttering butterfly wings. The natural motif, lightweight fibers, throne-like shape, and Filipino roots suggest a modern take on a classic rattan peacock chair — a design that’s also popular this season.

Outdoor furniture trends: bringing indoor styling outside.

3. Indoor-Outdoor Vibes

Over the past couple of years, patios have transformed into extensions of our interior living spaces, and furnishings have followed suit. This spring, many manufacturers at High Point debuted outdoor furniture collections that mimic high-end living and dining room furniture, making them equally at home in either environment.

Kravet’s newly-launched KravetSoleil Indoor/Outdoor collection is a prime example. Its fully upholstered pieces, which include swivel chairs, couches, and ottomans, can be customized with nail designs in outdoor-suitable nickel or brass. The coordinating rugs are so soft, that it’s hard to believe they’re actually made from recycled water bottles.

Outdoor furniture trends: tropical pops of color.

4. Tropical Pops

Earthy tones will always have a place in outdoor furniture trends, but the market’s trend forecasters predict a resurgence of color this summer, especially tropical shades of blue and orange. While easily incorporated in accent pieces, such upbeat colors also turned up in furniture frames and upholstery at this spring’s market.

Chairs from Lloyd Flanders’ new Solstice and Southport collections are offered in more than a dozen colors of all-weather wicker, from beige to the bold peacock finish seen here. The color on the Southport’s frame is customizable too. Add a coral pillow and – pop! – you’re right on-trend.

Outdoor furniture trends: mixed matierials

5. Mixed Materials

Many market exhibitors embraced a “more is more” approach to mixing materials and textures in outdoor furniture pieces. Whether the contrasts were subtle or bold, the variety added interest and warmth to the designs.

The Secret Garden collection designed by Roberto Lazzeroni is a particularly attractive example of the trend. One of several new collections by Poltrona Frau on display in JANUS et Cie showrooms this spring, it features teak frames, upholstered cushions, two-tone woven cotton webbing, and enameled-stoneware tops in an array of colors, including the aqua shown here.

Outdoor furniture trends: eco-friendly elements.

6. Eco-Friendly Elements are Prominent in Outdoor Furniture Trends

Many of the durable materials traditionally used in outdoor furniture are associated with environmental damage, such as forest and habitat loss resulting from improper teak harvesting and pollution from plastic production and disposal. Fortunately, with increased awareness comes greater demand for sustainable products, and at the market, manufacturers were proud to share where they’ve made progress.

Recyclable and recycled materials (especially post-consumer recycled plastics) were touted in many outdoor furniture and textile collections. Houe, for one, prominently displayed its ReCLIPS chairs, which feature lamellas made of Danish household plastic trash, and most rug manufacturers touted recycled PET outdoor rugs.

On the wood front, FSC-certified wood products, which come from responsibly managed forests, were available from nearly all major outdoor furniture companies. This Sunpan Potenza armchair incorporates both FSC-certified teak and recyclable materials. FSC is the Forest Stewardship Council. Click here to learn more about FSC.

Outdoor furniture trends: flexible footprints.

7. Flexible Footprints

This Sorrento sectional from Jensen Outdoor, whose frame is also made from FSC-certified teak, exemplifies another trend that transcended the indoor-outdoor divide at this season’s market: modularity. Easily reconfigured sofas, nesting, laptop-friendly side tables, and ottomans that triple as coffee tables and sofa extensions all serve to increase the functionality of outdoor spaces, which we’re relying on now perhaps more than ever. Fortunately, in showroom after showroom at High Point, manufacturers proved ready to fill the need.

Outdoor furniture trends: modularity.

If you like these summer outdoor furniture trends, I can help you with sourcing them and pulling it all together for a great outdoor experience. Just message me here, right below this blog post, or click this “contact” link, or you can email me at: carmen@sohointeriordesign.com And you can call me anytime at (407) 743-2399.

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Gold luxury feature wall

Feature Wall Ideas For A Luxury Bedroom Design

With the proliferation of Instagrammable mural designs as well as Pinterest-worthy wallpaper, having a unique feature wall integrated into your space is going to be a big part of the interior design trends of 2022 and beyond. Explore the luxurious works of world-class artists and craftsmen creating one-of-a-kind feature walls, curated by Artelier, a collaborative art consultancy providing high-end custom feature walls and other artistic treatments for residences and luxury yachts. Here are a few feature wall designs from their Artist Walls collection.

1. The Woven Abstract – This mural features sweeping shapes that reflect light and float through the air like metallic veils, winding around and overlaying each other. The pop of color works well in an otherwise muted bedroom.

The sweeping, woven abstract feature wall.

2. The Grey and Gold – This feature wall has been designed to be a subtle, calm, and luxurious experience reflecting the palette and atmosphere of the room. Working closely with our artists on each project Artelier carefully adapts the walls to reflect their environment.

The gray and gold feature wall

3. Suede Silk & Leather – Renowned for her couture-standard work and exquisite detailing, which alludes to Saville Row tailoring. The artist describes her work as “tailoring for walls”, which effortlessly brings together fashion and interiors.

Suede, silk and leather feature wall.

4. Nuno Silk – This feature wall was made using an ancient textile technique known as Nuno Silk. The artist blends natural wool, mohair, merino fibers, and silk by hand. Through a gentle washing process, the wool fibers open and become meshed with the silk, transforming the separate raw materials into one lightweight non-woven fabric.

Nuno silk feature wall

5. The Gold Mural – Artelier is working in collaboration with artist Michelle Gagliano to produce these hand-painted feature walls which are made of natural pigment and gold leaf. These murals are eye-catching while still blending into the space they occupy.

Gold luxury feature wall

6. Abstract Mural – Last but certainly not least we have this extra subtle feature wall that blends perfectly into the space it occupies. If you are after subdued luxury then this might just be the perfect design for your bedroom.

Abstract mural feature wall.

Adding a unique feature wall to your bedroom doesn’t have to be complicated, and can truly enhance your living space. Working in collaboration with artists in all genres and styles Artelier designs completely bespoke work that reflects the current design aesthetic a client seeks for their home. If you are interested in discovering more you can visit the Artelier website here.

These are fabulous creations and I hope you like them as much as I do! If you’d like to explore these treatments further, let me know and we can determine the best approach for your space.

I’m easy to reach – you can choose a contact method right below this blog post, or click this “contact” link. You can also email me at: carmen@sohointeriordesign.com, and, of course, you can always call me anytime at (407) 743-2399.

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Molding and trim create a beautiful, stylish accent wall.

9 Accent Wall Molding and Trim Design Ideas

Are you interested in elevating the look of your accent walls? By creating intricate and thoughtful designs out of molding and trim, it’s a simple task to take your accent wall to the next level. Here are nine accent wall molding and trim design ideas to get those ideas flowing:

1. Use a Subtle Hand with Minimal Chair Rails

The molding added to this accent wall enhances the look of the baseboards and trim along the windows.

The designer for this beautiful room utilized a flat, angular molding to create a chair rail that perfectly accentuates the minimal aesthetic. This choice provides a break in the taupe-colored accent wall, adding a subtle touch of personality.

Notice how the molding enhances the look of the baseboards and trim along the windows. Each piece adds energy to the room without pulling focus or overwhelming the design. This is a perfect choice for any dining room, where family, friends, and guests can gather to eat, socialize, and celebrate.

2. Elevate the Look of Your Fireplace

Molding elevates the look of your fireplace.

This living room exemplifies the idea of an accent wall by focusing all the attention on the fireplace. This is a fixture meant to grab and hold your attention as soon as you walk into the room.

The built-in woodgrain shelves pop in contrast to the white shiplap covering the fireplace wall. The crown molding used at the top and bottom of the wall accentuates the fireplace, making it stand out even more. Instead of a typical wooden mantel, they’ve mounted a flat-screen television that perfectly matches the width and deep black of the fireplace. This living room belongs to a family that entertains in style.

3. Create Sharp Angles with Dark Molding

It’s impossible not to notice how well the chocolate trim around the door perfectly complements the courtyard green of the accent wall.

Let’s challenge the idea that molding and trim need to be white. This room utilizes molding with chocolate tones to cut a sharp angle along the edge of the ceiling, floors, and windows. This pairs well with the industrialized light fixtures and darker design elements throughout this kitchen.

It’s impossible not to notice how well the chocolate trim around the door perfectly complements the courtyard green of the accent wall. The choice to keep this color uniform allows the accent wall to pop. Everything about this room feels modern and luxurious.

4. Create Floor-to-Ceiling Panels

The choice to use molding to create panels from the floor to the ceiling took this standard accent wall and transformed it into a showstopper.

The choice to use molding to create panels from the floor to the ceiling allowed this designer to take a standard accent wall and transform it into a showstopper. The molding is also utilized on the non-accent walls, creating a striped texture to accentuate the décor.

The best decision here, by far, was the decision to keep everything the same color. This allows the molding to create contrast with shadows. Depending on the lighting and where you’re standing, the panels will have a different look and depth.

5. Transform Your Ceilings and Walls

This design utilizes molding to create a focal point that draws your attention to the accent wall and fireplace, which perfectly complements the design aesthetic of the built-ins on the adjacent wall.

Aside from the blue steel accent wall, this room is packed with intricate design techniques that create an awe-inspiring and cozy living space. The molding accents on the ceiling and along the top of the accent wall create a sense of dimension that is anything but typical.

This design creates a focal point that draws your attention to the accent wall and fireplace, which perfectly complements the design aesthetic of the built-ins on the adjacent wall.

6. Create the Look of Picture Frames

Create the look of picture frames.

Dark accent walls are quickly becoming a hallmark of modern design aesthetics. They draw your attention immediately and offer a splash of personality without making the room feel too dark.

But why stop there? The designer of this living space transformed the green accent wall by creating the look of empty picture frames. They used actual picture frames to create this effect, but the same can be done with molding. In fact, if you want the edges more uniform and the sizes more customizable, molding is the ideal choice.

7. Embrace a Chic and Minimal Office Design

This accent wall is cut in half with an elevated chair rail.

Less is more with a minimal office design. This accent wall is cut in half with an elevated chair rail. This is a smart choice because the room still feels warm, bright, and inviting, even with the darker shades of blue.

The designer of this room decided to take the chair rail concept a step further by adding molding to create panels along the wall. This makes it almost feel like the room is split into three sections. This is both intriguing and modern, but also timeless.

8. Utilize Thin Molding to Create Narrow Panels

Utilize thin molding to create narrow panels.

While we’re into the idea of revolutionizing accent walls, let’s focus on a different type of paneling. You don’t have to use thick molding to create this effect. In fact, you can use thinner strips of molding to create narrow panels that look both expensive and sophisticated.

This navy accent wall is the definition of luxury. The thin panels give a touch of personality to the wall without drawing too much attention. The white baseboards highlight the accent wall, drawing warmth and brightness from the rest of the room.

9. Get Creative with Intricate Molding Designs

Get creative with intricate molding designs.

No rule says you can’t have fun with your molding and trim designs. This room is a prime example of that. By creating an unconventional striped pattern along this juniper-colored wall, you immediately feel like this room is ripped straight from a modern interior design catalog.

Adding a touch of nature to this design aesthetic, the rich dark color of the accent wall perfectly complements the plants, woodgrain, and wicker basket. Pairing it all with the industrial black light fixture and grey metal headboard makes this bedroom absolutely stunning.

What’s Your Design Style?

After seeing all these inspiring design ideas, you’re probably itching to do something with your own accent walls. If you don’t know which molding or trim to choose or you’re unsure of how to get started, I’m here to help you determine the molding and trim styles that are perfect for your design aesthetic. I can show you all kinds of design treatments that would work best for your space, so just let me know if what you’ve seen here has inspired you. I’m easy to reach – you can choose a contact method right below this blog post, or click this “contact” link. You can also email me at: carmen@sohointeriordesign.com, and, of course, you can always call me anytime at (407) 743-2399.

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Crown molding for bathrooms.

Adding Crown Molding for Bathroom Luxury

When homeowners think about elevating their interior designs, crown molding often comes to mind. It’s an ideal highlight feature that can be used in almost any part of the home to add a touch of luxury and stylish appeal. However, people don’t often associate crown molding with bathrooms. Crown molding can add luxury and style to a bathroom.

After all, bathrooms are known for slick walls and waterproof tile floors, so most people think that crown molding doesn’t fit that aesthetic. Surprisingly, they are wrong.

What is Crown Molding?

Crown molding creates a seamless transition between the top of a wall and its ceiling.

Crown molding is a decorative molding used to highlight and create a seamless transition between the top of a wall and its ceiling. It can also be installed along the edges of windows, doors, cabinets, staircases, and more. It’s the ideal addition to any room’s design because it adds a touch of sophistication and flair without pulling away focus.

Why is Crown Molding a Perfect Addition to Your Bathroom?

It’s a misconception that crown molding is just for luxurious mansions, regal rooms, and high cathedral ceilings. Crown molding can be used to elevate any room’s interior design, and that quality extends to bathrooms, as well.

Crown molding doesn't overwhelm, it enhances.

In the latest popular design trends, I’ve seen crown molding used in bathrooms much more often, which makes a lot of sense. Bathrooms are meant to be tranquil and relaxing, and there’s no better way to help create a beautiful and calming space than with elegant crown molding.

7 Awe-Inspiring Crown Molding Bathroom Designs

If that’s not enough to make the case that crown molding is an excellent addition to your bathroom, here are some attractive design inspirations. Expert designers throughout the world use crown molding to amp up their aesthetics and bring their designs to life.

Here are seven gorgeous bathrooms that perfectly utilize crown molding to create a luxurious and awe-inspiring design:

1. A Luxurious Master Bath with Crowned Vanities

Crown molding in a lovely neutral bathroom setting

This bathroom is tailored specifically for a trendsetter. Guests don’t often see master bathrooms, but that doesn’t mean they should be drab. In fact, quite the opposite is true.

Here, crown molding was used to highlight the vanities, to create a perfect contrast for the opulent lighting fixtures, stunning furnishings, and neutral color palette.

2. A Gorgeous Vanity with His and Her Sinks

Crown molding elevates this lovely bathroom vanity.

Here is another example of how crown molding can elevate the look of bathroom vanities. In this bathroom, you can see the molding carried through the overall design and into the walls behind the vanity.

However, don’t take your eyes off the prize. This elegant bathroom vanity is an ideal centerpiece that features matching his and her sinks, soft lighting, and minimal floral accents.

3. A Neutral Frame for Beautiful Wallpaper

No wallpaper is complete without crown moulding to appropriately frame it.

Nothing spells luxury quite like an ornate wallpaper, and no wallpaper is complete without crown molding to appropriately frame it. This opulent master bathroom has all of the eye-catching elements kept in perspective.

Neutral-colored crown molding was used, so it didn’t detract from the luxurious design, which allows the wallpaper and other intricate design elements to shine.

4. A Simple and Sophisticated Use of White-on-White Molding

The white-on-white crown moulding adds a touch of intrigue and dimension without pulling focus.

Sometimes, less is more, and that’s certainly the case with this beautifully minimal bathroom. The white-on-white crown molding adds a touch of intrigue and dimension without grabbing focus.

It allowed the designer to add a little pop of color that really brings this bathroom to life. Paired with brass fixtures, modern art, and a cute rug, this bathroom feels like an ideal place to relax and unwind.

5. A Modern Twist on a Classic Bathroom Design

The true highlight here is the white crown molding around the ceiling

Shiny stone floors, a huge soaking tub, and white furniture accents create a beautiful space. The blueish-grey walls also add a subtle touch of intrigue, but the true highlight here is the white crown molding around the ceiling. Paired with a gorgeous walk-in shower and windows for lots of sunlight, this bathroom is lovely, don’t you think?

6. A Hauntingly Beautiful Bathroom Inspired by Dark Colors

Beautiful dark crown molding makes an opulent bathroom statement.

Black, red, and white are beautifully combined here. Notice how the dark crown molding perfectly matches the tiled floor, vanity, and door frames.

This bathroom is at once sensual and incredibly luxurious. It’s the ideal master bath for an adventurous homeowner who values style and elegance.

7. A New Take on the Classic Black and White Aesthetic

The black wallpaper, checkered floors, and white crown molding make for an exceptional bathroom design.

This bathroom is simultaneously inspiring, gorgeous, and unexpected. While the black and white aesthetic is a classic, this bathroom turns that idea on its head. The black wallpaper, checkered floors, and white crown molding make for a unique bathroom design.

And this is just the tip of the iceberg showcasing how crown molding can inject luxury and style into your bathroom. And why stop there? It’s perfect for almost any space in your home. Be sure to check out my other blog post about molding and trim throughout your home – click here to read it. I’d love to show you all the crown molding treatments that would work best for your bathroom, or any other space, so just let me know if what you’ve seen here inspires you. I’m easy to reach – you can choose a contact method right below this blog post, or click this “contact” link. You can also email me at: carmen@sohointeriordesign.com, and, of course, you can always call me anytime at (407) 743-2399.

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Attractive ways to dress up a room with molding & trim

Attractive Ways to Dress Up a Room with Molding & Trim

Looking for ways to add character and interest to your interior? Use trim and molding! Check out the various ways you can add wall trim to amp up your home’s design.

The Details Make the Difference

Molding and trim can turn a plain square room into a true showpiece.

Molding and trim can turn a plain square room into a true showpiece. When you’re considering how best to add trim to any room, don’t just think about ceilings and floors. Trim works well along the middle of a wall, three-quarters down from the ceiling, around windows and doors, or along the edges of architectural features such as built-in bookcases or recessed panels in walls or ceilings.

When it comes to trim styles, you are really limited only by your imagination: You can go with chunky, wide, or layered trim for a bold look, or opt for delicate, narrow trim to keep things elegant. Plus, you can buy molding in a variety of materials, from paintable, stainable woods to lightweight, plastic molding that doesn’t need finishing. Keep reading for inspiring ideas to use trim and molding in your interior.

Sweet and Simple Molding and Trim

Let plain molding to quietly frame other parts of the room, like the arched doorway and windows, while letting its star feature shine.

Sometimes simplest really is best. If you have a room that already has a striking detail, like exposed brick, you won’t want your trim to compete with it. Opt instead for plain molding to quietly frame other parts of the room, like the arched doorway and windows, while letting its star feature shine.

Trim Trio

The white beadboard and chair rail brighten up the bathroom, and in combination with the ceiling trim creates the effect of taller ceilings and a brighter bathroom.

Using multiple styles of trim in a single room can add character and charm to a formerly drab space. Here, the white beadboard and chair rail brighten up the bathroom, and in combination with the ceiling, trim creates the effect of taller ceilings and a brighter bathroom.

Too Much Can Be Just Enough

The molding makes the room and turns the ceiling into a real eye-catcher.

Plain trim can yield striking results when it is used generously. Here, molding not only frames the doorways and the base and top of the walls, but it also continues beyond, framing out beams and turning an ordinary ceiling into a real eye-catcher.

Lighten Up

Thin wood trim adds the perfect level of warmth for this room.

Wood trim can create a stately, old-world look in any home, but it can wind up looking heavy. Stick to thin wood trim, like in this room, to add warmth without overwhelming the space. The trim also frames the tray ceiling—a quick and easy way to turn a dull expanse into a true highlight.

Trim It Thin

Understated trim doesn’t steal space from the room, establishing instead an airy feel.

To create a clean, modern look, use thin trim along the baseboard and ceiling. Understated trim doesn’t steal space from the room, establishing instead an airy feel. Contrast the white trim by painting the ceiling off-white; this helps the walls feel taller.

Outside-In with Window Trim

Sometimes trim can be put inside window openings.

Trim doesn’t always have to be placed around windows—sometimes it can be put in them as well. If you have deep-set windows, consider trimming the insides of the frames with a material like this light wood to create a fresh, farmhouse-style feel.

Divide and Cozy Up

In large, vaulted interiors, running trim around the room at about the level of a typical ceiling can create the sense of a virtual ceiling.

In large, vaulted interiors, running trim around the room at about the level of a typical ceiling can create the sense of a virtual ceiling. This circle of molding adds a cozy factor to a room that might otherwise feel too large and soaring.

Crowned Cabinets

Molding can be used to add a sense of elegance—and height—to kitchen cabinets.

Molding doesn’t have to be attached only to doors, walls, and ceilings. It can also be used to add a sense of elegance—and height—to kitchen cabinets. Don’t be afraid to go bold—paint the mold the same color as your cabinets to make a real splash.

Picture Perfect Molding and Trim

Not only does the trim used here frame the archways, it also creates sophisticated panels on the walls.

Not only does the trim used here frame the archways, it also creates sophisticated panels on the walls. Using trim to construct a “picture frame” on the walls is a cheap and affordable way to jazz up any room.

Go for the Mold

Molding can enhance any room's interior design beautifully.

Elevate your home’s interior design by adding molding and trim. There are so many ways of accenting your spaces, and so many options. I’d love to show you the variety of approaches that would work best for your space, so just let me know if what you’ve seen here has inspired you. I’m easy to reach – you can choose a contact method right below this blog post, or click this “contact” link. You can also email me at: carmen@sohointeriordesign.com, and, of course, you can always call me anytime at (407) 743-2399.

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